NAGP

Government expects to design ‘opt-in’ GP system for abortion
Doctors not participating will be obliged to refer patients elsewhere for treatment

June 12, 2018
Sarah Bardon Political Reporter

The Government is expected to design an opt-in system for medical professionals willing to provide abortion services and allow doctors conscientiously object to providing the care.

The legislation to regulate the termination of pregnancy, in line with the decision made in last month’s referendum to repeal the Eighth Amendment, is being considered by the Attorney General Séamus Woulfe’s office.

GPs must be allowed decide for themselves whether to offer abortion
One group representing family doctors met in Portlaoise to discuss formal response to abortion referendum

Sat, Jun 9, 2018
Brian Hutton

Family doctors will tell the government they must be allowed decide for themselves whether to offer abortion or not.

The National Association of General Practitioners (NAGP), which says it represents 2,500 of Ireland’s 3,500 GPs, has agreed “overwhelmingly” to demand an “opt-in” approach to providing pregnancy terminations.

It also estimates eight in ten GPs would choose not to opt-in under such a system.

GPs group calls on Harris to ensure doctors must 'opt in' to provide abortion services
The NAGP passed a series of motions after an emergency meeting today following the result of the referendum.

June 9, 2018

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of General Practitioners (NAGP) have held an emergency meeting to discuss the outcome of the Eighth Amendment referendum, and passed motions calling for an “opt-in” provision for doctors to provide abortion services.

The NAGP have also called for a conscientious objection provision to be inserted into any legislation passed by government in the wake of the referendum result.

Medical professionals will be able to object to providing terminations
GPs, obstetricians and gynaecologists will be allowed to conscientiously object

Feb 7, 2018
Sarah Bardon

Medical professionals will be able to object to the administration of terminations under Government proposals.

Minister for Health Simon Harris has confirmed he will allow for GPs, obstetricians and gynaecologists to conscientiously object to providing terminations in medical settings. The Government is seeking to introduce legislation to allow for abortions up to 12 weeks and believes this should be a service led by GPs.

However those representing GPs are critical of the lack of engagement by Mr Harris on the proposed legislation.